Includes:Feature Length History Special: How The States Got Their Shapes

Release Date: 2011

When the founding fathers drew the first map of America, they confronted many of the same challenges that unite and divide us today. HOW THE STATES GOT THEIR SHAPES explores how our borders evolved--and continue to change--in response to religion, transportation, communication, politics, culture clashes and even Mother Nature. This is no textbook-style documentary series. Local experts and everyday folks lead host Brian Unger, a journalist and former Daily Show correspondent, to insights about some of America’s most baffling questions. How are flying fish threatening to re-draw the shape of Illinois? What does the use of cell phones by Pennsylvania’s Amish have to do with the shape of their state? How is the phrase “sold down the river” linked to the shape of what might be our 51st state? Why did the invention of air conditioning change how America picks its Presidents? Unger uncovers the answers, hidden in our map.

BONUS FEATURES: Feature-length HISTORY Special How The States Got Their Shapes

DISC 1: A River Runs Through It / The Great Plains, Trains, & Automobiles / Force of Nature / State of Rebellion

DISC 2: Living on the Edge / Use it Or Lose It / Church and States / A Boom With A View

Use this to learn the history of the states, things I forgot from my early days in school. Love the interaction, keeps my attention, good for folks with ADD both children and adults! You learn a lot about the states and the people. Great way for kids to learn more about the country and remember it.

Not so great, feel like it's a cliff hanger, wish you could finish ALL 50 states.

When this series was on TV, I watched religiously. As a devoted viewer, it was very disappointing when the first season ended. But, I received one of the best Christmas gifts in years--the season one DVD set. This is certainly a great choice for anybody who enjoys American history, cartography, and cultural context. Entertaining, educational, and fun!!!

I have asked this question about how the states got their shapes multiple times over the years but never found an answer. This production is one of the most impressive, informative and truly EXCELLENT! things I have EVER watched! I haven't seen anything so interesting and captivating in 30 years! I thank you so much for such a quality production! (Your host was also a perfect choice--I love his sense of humor.) Just a true delight to experience!